President Obama has pledged to take action on climate change, stating in his second inaugural address that "the failure to do so would betray our children and future generations," and emphasizing that the U.S. must lead on the transition to sustainable energy. But what measures can he take to achieve these goals?

What are current U.S. greenhouse gas emissions levels, and what are they projected to be in 2020 and 2035 if no additional action is taken to reduce them?

Can the U.S. meet its international commitment to reduce emissions 17 percent below 2005 levels by 2020, and put itself on a trajectory of more than 80 percent below 2005 levels by 2050, without new federal legislation?

What legal and policy tools exist under current federal law to achieve emission reductions? What additional actions can states pursue to contribute to emissions reductions?

The science is clear: urgent action is needed if we are to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. We look forward to your participation in this timely discussion.